Monday, March 19, 2012

Log Entry: March 19, 2012

The TOV's burnt out back motor has been replaced, and a tighter rubber band has been added. This should provide enough torque to prevent the gears from slipping in wet conditions. The motor and wheels have been tested and verified to work.

Friday, March 9, 2012

Log Entry: March 9, 2012

The TOV has been completed and tested, however there are still adjustments to make. Some design flaws and problems have been highlighted by testing, including a loss of traction with the rubber band when the TOV is operated in water. Paddles have been added to the wheels for increased maneuverability in sand and water, and alternatives are currently being sought to replace the rubber band as a drive belt for the rear axle.

Friday, March 2, 2012

Log Entry: March 2, 2012

The TOV's construction is nearing completion, with some adjustments and repairs to make. The tether is complete and has been linked with the TOV's motors. Currently, testing is being conducted to evaluate the performance of the TOV.

Monday, February 27, 2012

Log Entry: February 27, 2012

The rear motor's connection to the rear axle has been changed from a series of gears and shafts to a rubber band wrapped between the motor shaft and axle. This simplified the design, however there is still an issue with obtaining enough torque to move the vehicle. The control box has been successfully tethered to three motors within the TOV hull, and the switches have been tested for proper functioning. The TOV has also been tested for buoyancy and water resistance and the test was a success.

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Log Entry: February 15, 2012

The rear wheels' motor has been attached and tested, and the arm is fully complete. Fishing hooks and a  magnet must now be added, as well as completion of the tether and front steering.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Log Entry: February 14, 2012

Today our group is finishing the hinge mechanism of the TOV and modifying it to make it smaller, as well as completing the tether and mounting the motors within the hull structure.

Friday, February 10, 2012

Log Entry: February 10, 2012

Our group is currently reconstructing the TOV's hinge mechanism, as the previous one did not hold together due to an insufficient type of glue. The new mechanism is being assembled with hot glue rather than wood clue, which should provide better adhesion between the plastic straw hinges and wooden dowels. The tether is also nearing completion. The control box has been sealed shut and the tether is being sheathed in plastic tubing.